Darin Mastroianni

Mastroianni played in both the Phillies and Nationals organizations last season, batting .257 between their respective Triple-A affiliates. He also hit 26 doubles and had 25 steals at Lehigh Valley an...

Mastroianni enters spring training as a candidate to win a top reserve role or even the starting center field job, but he'll first need to get his career back on track after an injury plagued season. He entered last season with a chance to win the primary reserve role and maybe even a starting job, but he played just 30 games due to injuries. A troublesome left ankle was an issue all year long, as Mastroianni was diagnosed with a stress reaction in April and ended up having surgery in May. There were then several setbacks to his recovery in the months that followed, and once again, he had to go under the knife following the conclusion of the season. If healthy, he offers speed and strong defense with versatility since he can play all three outfield positions. He could help fantasy owners with his speed even if he has a limited role off the bench, but he'll enter spring training without a 40-man roster spot.

2013

Mastroianni made enough of an impression with the Twins last season that he could be the team's top reserve outfielder in 2013 and perhaps even win the open center field job. Mastroianni hit just .252/.328/.350, but he added value with his glove (9.8 UZR) and speed (21 stolen bases). He is versatile since he can play all three outfield positions. While he does not have much power, he draws walks at a good rate. Mastroianni's season ended in mid-September after he tore a tendon in the middle finger of his left hand, but it should not be an issue for Opening Day. If he wins a job on the big league roster, he could help fantasy owners with his speed even if he has a limited role of the bench.

2012

Mastroianni has a decent enough approach at the plate to warrant a reserve outfielder look eventually. He doesn't hit for any power but shows enough plate discipline and speed (.268/.353/.377 with 34 steals between Double-A New Hampshire and Triple-A Las Vegas last year). Ultimately, he could benefit from the Jays' lack of depth in center field behind Colby Rasmus at some point if injuries create an opportunity.